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Streamline the post connection. The top riser is continuous with the deck’s fascia for a clean transition. The outside course of decking is full width and is notched around each newel post. the holes. As I mentioned, hiding the fasteners improves the look of the stairs and reduces the chance of water damage, but it also makes the stairs nicer to the touch and eliminates the fastener location as a source of slivers. Obviously, all deck stairs should conform to local code requirements. I installed the cable-rail system according to the manufacturer’s specifications. I beveled the top of the handrail to shed water and to make it more comfortable to grab. In some code jurisdictions, I also would have to install an additional handrail that is easier to hold. □ Scott Grice lives with his wife and daughters in Portland, Ore. Photos by John Ross. www.finehomebuilding.com Plug all locations screwed from above. It’s not possible to hide all the fasteners by screwing from below. There are always some locations, like handrails, where it is much easier to drive a fastener from above. I don’t worry about it, but I take the time to plug every location screwed from above to maintain a streamlined appearance and to prevent water penetration. OCTOBEr/NOvEMBEr 2008 77